Superintendent Kari McVeigh presented on the proposed New Haven Unified School District Parcel Tax Special Election for May 3, 2011. The mail-in ballot requires two-thirds' approval of Measure B by New Haven voters to raise approximately $3M annually to preserve quality instructional time, maintain educational and after-school activities and minimize increases in class sizes and reductions to the school year. The proposed annual assessment, collected via local property tax bills, would be $180 per parcel ($15 per month) with exemptions for seniors and the disabled and a four-year term. A citizens' oversight committee would review spending. The parcel tax revenue could not fund administrators' salaries.

Barry Ferrier reminded everyone of the importance of providing input to the Alameda Countywide Transportation Plan, a 25-year document that is updated every four years and sets out the strategy for meeting transportation needs for all Alameda County residents and visitors. For a schedule of public meetings or how to contact the Alameda Country Transportation Commission to make comment, visit www.AlamedaCTC.com